Bandista

How about a goal that isn't associated with the number on the scale -- like fitting into snazzy Jammies for Christmas morning or a new outfit, something like that? You are going to drop this weight -- you are on your way. But don't let that almighty scale drive you nuts. That's advice from some one not there yet -- you'll be telling me the same thing a few months from now when I'm wondering how thin I can be by such-and-such.

I love my treadmill -- I just walk on it now and even quite slowly sometimes to work out the joints first thing AM (i have arthritis). Last year it got stuck on the highest incline. Could not fix it and finally resolved with blocks of wood underneath -- it's ridiculous but it works and blocks can be removed to achieve incline again. Also have a recumbent bicycle which is good for warming up but for me not enough for cardio. Whenever I have tried an elliptical at a gym or wherever, I can't believe how hard it is. I think we get used to what we are doing regularly and something different really changes it up. Have fun!

Hi there, thanks for sharing your story and welcome to a world of on-line support here. (And 2muchfun, I thought immediately of the Flintstones as well -- yabba dabba doo).

Yippee! So happy for you -- you are doing beautifully. I can't wait to be on the other side. Love these pictures and your smiling face. You are on your way!

Hi there, hope you are getting some good sleep right now! What about bracing yourself in with extra pillows to prevent rolling over -- sort of like being tucked into place.....then you can remove pillows one by one over time until you're back to your regular sleep position. Hope your healing is going well and you're feeling well rested soon.

This is great -- so happy for you!

Thanks so much for this -- very inspirational. I really want to show up for my life and getting healthy is the key to so many doors opening in the future. For now the door opening for me is this process of getting the band. Like you I was not heavy enough (oh the irony!) and so many health issues mounting up. Now I am at the goal weight for qualifying for the surgery -- here's to being at the real goal weight -- that goal of optimal health. You are a rock star already because you're rocking this. I know early days are not easy but you have so got this. Have a great day!

The other day I was pondering this as I know it's going to be a big issue for me once I'm banded -- New Englanders eat so damn fast! Our kid likes to eat with chop sticks and it occurs to me that this would slow me down considerably. There is an elegance to them that appeals to me. A focus on the aesthetics -- how the food looks, smells, tastes. Really appreciating the meal in a slow way. Hey, maybe the Slow Food movement people have some thoughts out there about this......

Hi there, by the time you read this you will be on the other side -- in Band Land! Wishing you a speedy recovery. Look forward to being right behind you (waiting for that call with a surgery date). Keep us posted!

Hi there, congratulations on your success so far. I am pre-band but in reading so many posts these last few months while waiting for a surgery date it seems like this is a common point at which people feel a little stalled. Know that it's early days, your body is still adjusting and it is all happening -- you are on your way!

Such a self-esteem boost -- so happy for you! It's fascinating how we see ourselves (or can't see ourselves). Congratulations on having so many more options available in the clothing department. I can't wait to be a regular size again and to be able to wear pretty things instead of what I think of as my uniform now. Have fun!

Hope you feel better today! I have not had this surgery yet but from other surgeries I know that constipation can be a real problem. For me pain medication just makes all that so much worse. Best wishes for a good day of healing -- there's always that turnaround point when things suddenly are so much better.

Hi there -- way to go on the 40 pounds lost since March with no band yet, etc. That is a real accomplishment. Does your PCP or the WLS staff have thoughts for you -- we are all getting banded for a reason so how to get off big chunks of weight without the tool? My surgeon requires a liquid pre-op diet prior to the surgery and they provide a system called HMR800 for that -- shakes. The purpose is to shrink the liver. Good luck to you -- December 19th a banner day!

Hi Amy and welcome! I'm waiting for a surgery date and really looking forward to getting banded. I know it's going to be hard work sometimes but it's going to be so great to have success. I am going to be 52 and wish this had been an option earlier in my life, but I'm not looking back -- here's to a healthy future for all of us!

Hi there. Here's to Not Worrying -- just knowing that it is all happening. It's all happening. You are in the long game, the one that matters over time -- not the day to day or even month to month but what about one year ago and one year from now. What do those look like?

Mindfulness: it's where it's at! Great blog -- thanks so much!

What is five-day pouch test? I am pre-band -- know nothing -- but keep reading about this.

I am so there with you, Icy One -- a few more hoops but I am SO READY!

I love the title of this blog as I sometimes feel like I lost part of myself along the way -- or that I'm in there somewhere under the extra weight that of course holds me back. I am so happy for you to have made this big new change in your life and I hope I'm right behind you. Thanks for giving a glimpse of what it's like in early days......I know it's going to be a big project, Project Me. Have fun cuddling with the cutie-pies -- best wishes.

Thanks! I just pasted that into a note for myself. Not sure what a Genie bra is -- going to have look that up. Does it come with three wishes?

Hang on Little Tomato! (From a song by Pink Martini...).......

Hi Micki -- congratulations! By the time you read this you'll probably be walking up and down the hallways and thinking about what movies you're going to watch over the next few days. Wishing you a smooth recovery and lots of good wishes for this new chapter in our life. So happy for you. I can't wait to get banded!

Here's to courageous women standing up for themselves and LIVING. Best wishes to you -- choose yourself first!

Thinking of you....Best wishes for smooth sailing and relaxing R&R as you heal up and get used to the band. I can't wait to be where you are now!

Hi Chloe -- congratulations on getting that weight off and remaining positive during difficult times.. Life is not easy sometimes, but what a difference it is to be able to navigate stress with a healthy body to help carry us through. Don't forget to pat yourself on the back and take a lot of deep breaths. Best wishes!